Windows 11 25H2 No Sound? The Speaker and Driver Fix List
Quick answer: The Windows 11 25H2 update has caused widespread audio problems — no sound, static, or the wrong output device selected — usually because it swapped your audio driver or reset the default output. Work the fixes in order and confirm each with the speaker test.
Check the output device and volume first
Updates often change the default playback device. Go to Settings, System, Sound, and make sure your speakers (not a disconnected HDMI display or headset) are selected under Output. Check the mute key and the app-level volume mixer too, since these are the fastest things to rule out.
Restart the audio service and run the troubleshooter
The built-in audio troubleshooter (Settings, System, Troubleshoot, Other troubleshooters) resets routing and the audio service automatically. If sound is frozen, restarting the "Windows Audio" service via services.msc revives it without a full reboot.
Fix the driver — the usual 25H2 culprit
If 25H2 replaced your working driver with a generic one, that alone can cause no sound or static. In Device Manager, under Sound, video and game controllers, you can Roll Back Driver (available for a short window after the update) or uninstall and restart for a clean reinstall. For laptops, the manufacturer's Realtek, Cirrus or Intel package usually behaves better than the generic one. A steady static — common after 25H2 — often clears once the correct driver is back.
Clear enhancements and sample-rate mismatches
In the speaker's Advanced properties, turn off audio enhancements and set a standard format like 24-bit, 48000 Hz — a mismatched rate or an aggressive enhancement can mute or distort output. Turning off "exclusive mode" stops one app from monopolizing the device.
Confirm the fix
Once sound returns, run the left/right sweep on the speaker test to be sure both channels work. Our guide on no sound from laptop speakers covers the hardware checks if software fixes don't do it.